A Handbook on the GATS Agreement
A WTO Secretariat Publication

This handbook offers an understanding of the practical operation of the GATS Agreement.

9780521850711, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 5 May 2005

106 pages
22.9 x 15.2 x 0.8 cm, 0.32 kg

This handbook aims to provide a better understanding of GATS and the challenges and opportunities of the ongoing negotiations. For users who are familiar with the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), similarities and differences are pointed out where relevant. Likewise, for users who are familiar with the balance-of-payments definition of 'trade', departures from the Agreement's coverage are explained. To stimulate further thinking about the core concepts and implications of the Agreement, several text boxes have been included to provide 'food for thought', and at the end of each chapter test questions have been added to recapitulate and ensure understanding of the core content.

Introduction
Basic purpose and concepts
Main building blocks: agreement, annexes, and schedules
A closer look at domestic regulation
How the GATS is administered
Role and responsibilities of member governments
The challenges ahead
Preparing requests and offers
Misconceptions about the GATS
A.I Understanding your country's services trade
A.II Relevant services statistics and classifications
A.III General Agreement on Trade in Services.

Subject Areas: International economic & trade law [LBBM]